Mary Alice Newman, 80, Was Tisbury Resident

Dr. Mary Alice Newman of Vineyard Haven died suddenly March 22 in North Fulton Hospital in Roswell, Ga. She had just turned 80. She was surrounded by her two daughters, Betsy and Mary and sons in law, Gary and Steven.

Mary Alice was born on March 10, 1925 in Crawfordsville, Ind. to Raymond and Dorothy (Greene) Ross. She was raised in West Lafayette, Ind. Mary Alice attended Wellesley College and graduated Phi Beta Kappa. She continued her education to the fullest extent, gaining a Master's Degree and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago in English literature and history. Thereafter, she taught and was assistant dean of students. In 1954 she married James E. Newman, a fellow Ph.D of history and dean of students. Jim just recently died on August 1, 2004. In 1962, they adopted their first child, Betsy and within a few years moved to Indiana Dunes. Mary Alice gave up her career to become a full time housewife and mother. In 1970 they adopted their second child, Mary.

While living in Dune Acres, Mary Alice and Jim enjoyed being members of the book club, bridge club, play-reading group and were on many social committees. They traveled frequently to Chicago for many cultural events. They also traveled extensively through the British Isles and Europe. In 2001 they made a permanent move to their beautiful, summer home on Martha's Vineyard. After Jim's death last August, Mary Alice moved down to Georgia to be near her daughters and their families. She never got over Jim's sudden death and obviously is with him again. Mary Alice was also instrumental in starting the Montessori program in Northwest Indiana and volunteering at Emmanuel Lutheran School, which Mary attended. Education was very important to both Mary Alice and Jim and they were happiest just sitting and talking. Their common interests were extraordinary and made for a long and happy marriage.

Mary Alice was a beloved mother and wife whom many will miss greatly. Being able to care for her these last months brought great joy to her daughters and they were honored to have that privilege. Her death coming on the heels of Jim's is and will be very difficult for many who loved them both.

Mary Alice is survived by daughters, Betsy (Gary) Tull of Roswell, Ga., Mary (Steven) Costello of Lawrenceville, Ga. and three grandchildren, Sarah Ross, Megan Elizabeth and Jacob Ryan Costello.

A memorial service will follow at a later date on the Vineyard. Those wishing information can write Betsy Tull at 908 Legacy Oaks Circle, Roswell, GA 30076 or Mary Costello at 2150 Ashley Crossing Court, Lawrenceville, GA 30043.